Castle Pines North Metropolitan District

Transcription

1 Castle Pines North Metropolitan District Water Conservation Plan August Prepared by: A th Street, Suite 1200 Denver, CO 80202

2 Contents Executive Summary Section 1 Introduction 1.1 Purpose Overview and Organization Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System 2.1 Physical Characteristics of the Existing Water Supply System Sources of Water System Limitations Characterize Water Costs and Pricing Current Policies and Planning Initiatives Current Water Conservation Activities Section 3 Water Use and Forecasted Demands 3.1 Current Water Use Forecasting Method Demand Forecast Section 4 Proposed Facilities 4.1 Cost Potential Facility Needs Incremental Cost Analysis Preliminary Capacity and Cost Forecasts Supply Capacity Section 5 Conservation Goals 5.1 Water Conservation Goals Goal Development Process Section 6 Conservation Measures and Programs 6.1 Identification of Conservation Measures and Programs Screening of Conservation Measures and Programs Screening Conservation Measures and Programs Section 7 Evaluation and Selection of Conservation Measures and Programs 7.1 Combinations of Measures and Programs Estimated Costs and Water Comparison of Benefits and Costs Evaluation Criteria Selection of Conservation Measures and Programs A i

3 Table of Contents Section 8 Integrate Resources and Modify Forecasts 8.1 Revised Demand Forecast Identification of Project-Specific Savings Revise Supply-Capacity Forecast Summary of Forecast Modifications and Benefits of Conservation Revenue Effects Section 9 Implementation Plan 9.1 Implementation Schedule Plan for Public Participation in Implementation Plan for Monitoring and Evaluating Processes Plan for Updating and Revising the Conservation Plan Plan Adoption Date, Plan Completed Date, Approved Date Appendices Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Public Review Process Adoption of the Castle Pines North Conservation Plan 30-Day Public Review Process Resolution Public Comments A ii

4 Figures 2-1 Castle Pines North Landuse Castle Pines North Non-Tributary Groundwater Wells Historical Revenue Annual Well Production and Reuse Monthly Well Production Annual Well Production and Total Annual Rainfall Water Demands in Indoor and Outdoor Water Demands Daily Per Capita Water Demands for District Service Area Daily Per Capita Residential Water Demands Projected Annual Water Demands Los Angeles' per Capita Use Possible Infrastructure Associated with Water Surface Supply Alternatives Well and Wastewater Productions Conjunctive Use and Projected Water Supply Net Benefits of the Sod Replacement Program Assuming Water Production Costs Remain Relatively Stable Net Benefits of the Sod Replacement Program Assuming Water Production Costs Significantly Increase Supply and Projected Demands with and without Conservation Project Annual Revenues based on 2006 Water Rate and Projected Demands with Conservation A iii

5 List of Figures/Tables Tables 2-1 Population and Homes in Castle Pines North Estimated Population for Commercial, Schools, and Customer Traffic Water System Profile for Grouping of Customers in Billing Rate System Groundwater Wells in Castle Pines North Water System Profile and 2006 Rate Structure for the New Water Rate System Water Budget Assumptions Fine for Infraction of Water Restrictions Current Conservation Activities Retrofit Incentives Estimated Water Savings from Existing Rebates Water Use by Customer in Change in Demand from 2002 to Projected Water Demands at Buildout and 2005 Daily Demands Costs of Supply Side Facilities for the Continued Use of Groundwater Anticipated Improvements and Additions Present Value Costs Water Conservation Measures and Programs Combinations of Conservation Measures and Programs Estimated Water Savings Analysis of Conservation Measures and Programs Comparison of Benefits and Costs of the Conservation Measures and Programs Selection of Conservation Measures/Programs and Estimated Water Savings Modified Demand Forecast Changes to Project Implementation Schedule for Measures and Programs A iv

6 Executive Summary Introduction The Castle Pines North Metropolitan District (District) currently relies on groundwater from the Denver Groundwater Basin (Denver Basin). Groundwater levels are declining throughout the South Metro area and will lead to a decrease in production and an increase in pumping costs. These effects will require the District to add new wells if the District remains on groundwater. These new wells in addition to the existing wells will have greatly reduced production, leading to higher costs for reduced yield. The District is currently evaluating renewable surface water supplies that would provide a more sustainable supply. Conservation will also be an important component of the District's future water supply management strategy. The purpose of this Conservation Plan (Plan) is to provide guidance in implementing a conservation program that is compatible with Castle Pines North's water supply system, water resources management strategy, and also with the values of the community. The Plan has been developed in accordance with the recommendations outlined in the Colorado Water Conservation Board's (CWCB) Water Conservation Plan Development Guidance Document. Profile of Existing System and Demands The District has implemented a variety of conservation measures and programs beginning in These include a modified 4-tiered water rate structure that charges customers (residential and nonresidential) more when an allotted usage is exceeded, water restrictions limiting irrigation to every third day, a rebate program, and educational programs that provide information to customers on conservation and other water related topics. A reduction in per capita demands following the implementation of these measures/programs indicates that these efforts have likely contributed to water savings. However, it is difficult to decipher how much of these savings are attributed to conservation given that a variety of factors such as rainfall and the regional drought awareness campaign following the severe 2002 drought also played a role in demand reductions. Historical well production data from 1998 to 2005 indicates that demands have generally increased as the community continues to develop. Reduction in demands occurred in 2004, which is likely attributed to the factors mentioned above, followed by an increase in The largest water user within the community is the residential sector followed by District irrigation of parks and open space and Homeowner Association Irrigation. Demands tend to seasonally fluctuate with peak demands occurring during the summer months when outdoor irrigation is the highest. Forecasted demands indicate that the District's water use at buildout in 2011 will be approximately 2,240 acre-feet per year (AFY). Potable demands (water that is treated and conveyed through the distribution system) is estimated to be 2,000 AFY. The nonpotable demand (treated wastewater that is reused on the Ridge Golf Course) is estimated to be 240 AFY. A ES-1

7 Executive Summary Profile of Proposed Facilities The District currently relies on 10 wells that pump groundwater from the Denver Basin. As previously mentioned, groundwater levels are declining throughout the South Metro area and will eventually increase pumping costs and require the District to add new wells if the District remains on groundwater. The District is currently evaluating renewable surface water supplies through the development of an Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP). The IWRP will provide an action plan and decision framework for the District to acquire renewable supplies. However, currently it is not possible to conclusively describe the District's long-term water supply plans and identify future facilities. Regardless of whether the District chooses to incorporate surface water supplies or solely remain on a groundwater supply, the cost of water production will increase in the future. Conservation Goals The profiles of the District's water supply and demands summarized above were used to develop the following water conservation goals: 1. Provide a water savings target of an additional 175 to 220 AFY based on 2003 water demand patterns (16 to 20 gallons per capita day (gpcd) based on projected population at buildout) through existing and additional conservation measures and programs. 2. Select conservation measures and programs that target outdoor irrigation and customers of high use. Target customers include the following: Residential (indoor and outdoor usage) District irrigation of parks and open space HOA irrigation 3. Closely monitor District irrigation on parks and open space. Maintain 2005 irrigation levels on parks and drip irrigation Reduce open space irrigation by an additional 10 percent (5.9 AF) with a total outdoor District usage not to exceed 93 AFY. (District metered usage in 2005 was 98.9 AF) 4. Provide assistance to the homeowner associations in reducing irrigated turf by 25 percent. 5. Select conservation measures and programs that are compatible with the community. 6. Establish a monitoring system that collects a sufficient amount of data to effectively measure the success of conservation programs and measures on an annual basis. Evaluation of Conservation Measures and Programs A set of preliminary conservation measures and programs were selected for further evaluation. This set consisted of existing conservation measures/programs as well as measures/programs that were likely to contribute to meeting the conservation goals, are compatible with the community, and provided water savings. Estimated water A ES-2

8 Executive Summary savings for each conservation measure/program were identified as well as anticipated costs to implement the measure/program and the net economic benefits. Table ES-1 provides a description for each of the selected measures and programs following the evaluation. Table ES-1 Selected Conservation Measures/Programs and Implementation Plan Measure/Program New or Existing Description Rebate Program - Indoor Fixtures and Appliances Low Flow Toilets Existing $100 rebate providing incentive to replace higher water use toilets (3-5 gallons per flush) with low flow toilets (1.6 gallons per flush) Low Usage Washers Existing $125 rebate providing incentive to replace higher water use washing machines (45 gallons per load) with low usage front load washers (25 gallons per load) Showerheads New $10 rebate providing incentive to replace higher water use showerheads (4 gallons per minute) with a more efficient showerhead (2.4 gallons per minute) Rebate Program - Residential Outdoor Rain Sensor Existing $100 rebate providing incentive to purchase a rain sensor that overrides an irrigation system when detecting rainfall Irrigation Clock Existing $75 rebate providing incentive to purchase an irrigation clock that sets time limits to conserve water ET Controller New $200 rebate providing incentive to purchase an ET controller that regulates irrigation based on factors (e.g. temperature and humidity) that influence evapotranspiration Sod replacement residential New Rebate program in which residential customers will be reimbursed at $0.40 per square foot for replacing Blue grass Turf with a more water efficient landscape. This may include xeric plants, water efficient turf grass approved by the District, and/or artificial turf. The new landscape will need to cover a plot within 500 to 2,000 square feet. An inspector will visit site before and after landscape change to verify change. Residential Indoor and Outdoor Audits for Residential Homes New at Tier 4 Indoor and Outdoor Audits for Homes Built prior to 1994 New Customers who exceed the Tier 4 billing rate may receive a free water audit. This audit will provide recommendations on how indoor and outdoor water usage may be reduced. Homes built prior to 1994 did not have to meet water efficiency standards set forth in the Energy Policy Act of These homes tend to have water using household items that are not as efficient. Customers owning these homes may receive a free water audit. This audit will provide recommendations on how indoor and outdoor water usage may be reduced. 20% Rebate Existing Customer whose water use is 20% below the annual billing rate's budgeted amount will receive a 20% rebate on his/her total annual water bill A ES-3

9 Executive Summary Table ES-1 Selected Conservation Measures/Programs and Implementation Plan Measure/Program New or Existing Description The Ridge Golf Course Audit for the Ridge Golf Course New The Ridge Golf Course may receive a free water audit providing recommendations on how they may improve irrigation efficiency and reduce water usage. Reuse on Ridge Golf Course Existing Beginning in 2006, 240 AFY of treated wastewater will be reused to irrigate the Ridge Golf Course HOA Irrigation Audits for HOAs New HOA customers may receive a free water audit. This audit will provide recommendations on how they may improve irrigation efficiency. Sod Replacement HOA New Rebate program in which HOA customers will be reimbursed at $0.40 per square foot for replacing Blue grass Turf with a more water efficient landscape. This may include xeric plants, water efficient turf grass approved by the District, and/or artificial turf. The new landscape will need to cover a plot within 500 to 2,000 square feet. An inspector will visit site before and after landscape change to verify change. Conservation Rate Structure Billing system - Increasing Block Rate Structure Leak Detection Sonic Leak Detection Program Public Education Program Existing and new programs Existing New Existing New The 4-tiered billing rate structure that allots a water budget to customers. Customers are charged according to the amount of water used. The cost per 1,000 gallons of water increases as water usage exceeds a tiered threshold. This provides incentive for customers to conserve water. Procedure that will detect leaks in water mains. This will improve conveyance efficiency. One third of the water conveyance system will be evaluated annually. Programs that convey information from the District to its customers. These include public meetings, bill inserts, newsletters, , and the Castle Pines North website. An interactive web-based water audit will be developed. Customers will be able to go online and input information on their water use. The web site will provide recommendations on how each customer can conserve additional water. A free Waterwise class will be offered to customers. This class will educate customers on methods to improve irrigation efficiency and reduce water usage. District Irrigation (on parks and open space) Water Conservation Efforts Irrigation Efficiency for Parks Existing and Drip Irrigation Irrigation Efficiency for Open Space New District will continue current irrigation schedule (every third day) and evaluate what additional modifications can be made to improve irrigation. This may include sod replacement and water audits. See conservation goals. District will continue current irrigation schedule (every third day) and evaluate what additional modifications can be made to improve irrigation. This may include sod replacement and water audits. See conservation goals. A ES-4

10 Executive Summary Table ES-1 Selected Conservation Measures/Programs and Implementation Plan Measure/Program New or Existing Description Programs not Evaluated in the Plan Yet Provide Conservation Savings and Will Continue to be Implemented Watering Restrictions Existing Restricts outdoor irrigation to every third day Leak Repair on District's Water Distribution System Existing District repairs all leaks that are not on private property and within the distribution system. Meter Source Water and Service Connections Existing Improves water usage efficiency by making customers accountable for amount of water used. Also enables the District to monitor the amount of water entering and leaving the water distribution system. Existing Improves District irrigation of parks and open space Metering of District Irrigation Turf Restrictions and Landscape design/layout Existing by making. Limitation on the amount of irrigated turf used for future parks and open space The conservation measures and programs selected for implementation shown in Table ES-1 are estimated to provide water savings within the range of 100 to 220 AF during the 10-year planning period from 2006 to Savings will likely increase over time as the number of participants in the programs increase. Conservation savings could reduce annual operating costs (amount of water that needs to be treated and distributed is reduced) as well as the amount of water rights that would need to be purchased for surface water supplies. Implementation Plan The new conservation measures identified in Table ES-1 are planned to be implemented in This will provide a suitable period of time for the District to organize the facilitation of the measures and programs. An effective monitoring and evaluation process will play a key role in the success of the conservation effort. As the District begins to acquire more data, trends between demands and conservation measures/programs may be established improving the ability to assess the effectiveness of the measures/programs. Successes as well as areas where improvements may be made will be identified, further improving the overall conservation program. The public will also play a key role in the effectiveness of the Plan. The success of conservation measures and programs depends on public response. The more engaged the community is in altering their behavior to conserve water and participate in the conservation programs, the more effective the conservation measures and programs will be. Annual monitoring results on the effectiveness of the conservation programs and measures will be conveyed to the public. Public feedback as well as staff input will be incorporated into an action plan for the following year. The District plans on revising this Plan no later than June of The modified Plan will incorporate findings of the annual monitoring data and public feedback. The public will have an opportunity to review the modified Plan. A ES-5

11 Section 1 Introduction Throughout Colorado, municipalities face potential shortages of water supplies in the future. The District is unique in that it serves a community that has a long-term physical supply. The community relies on groundwater from the Denver Basin to meet the majority of its water needs. However, this supply is nonrenewable. Water is pumped out of the basin faster than the recharge. If the District and the surrounding water entities in the South Metro area continue to withdraw groundwater at current rates, groundwater levels will decline to a point where it is economically infeasible to pump groundwater. The District is currently seeking renewable surface water supply alternatives. Throughout Colorado the competition and expense for surface water supplies is increasing. One way to help reduce these expenses is to conserve water. The conservation of water can reduce expenses associated with acquisition of the water, conveyance, and treatment of both potable and wastewater. Conservation also promotes the stewardship of natural resources and the environment. Conservation not only reduces water demand, but also decreases the amount of energy needed to pump, treat, and heat the water. Conservation is an important component of the District's water management strategy. As the cost of water rises, the economic benefits associated with conservation will only increase. Conservation plans are useful tools in developing a conservation program that effectively conserves water while minimizing associated costs. They are most effective when incorporated into the overall water resources management strategy. 1.1 Purpose The purpose of this Conservation Plan (Plan) is to provide guidance in implementing a conservation program that is compatible with the District's water supply system, water resources management strategy, and also with the values of the Castle Pines North (CPN) community. 1.2 Overview and Organization This Plan evaluates the District's historical and projected water demands and supplies. This information was used to develop a set of water conservation goals that establish targets for water saving amounts and identify specific end users that could provide the greatest water savings through conservation. The results of an evaluation of the savings and operation costs of existing and other potential conservation measures and programs are presented. This information was used to select a portfolio of conservation measures and programs that most effectively meet the conservation goals. An implementation plan as well as a monitoring plan to assess the effectiveness of each measure/program is included. The Plan is organized into the following Sections: A 1-1

12 Section 1 Introduction Section 1 Introduction Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Section 3 Characterize Water Use and Forecast Demand Section 4 Proposed Facilities Section 5 Conservation Goals Section 6 Conservation Measures and Programs Section 7 Evaluation and Selection of Conservation Measures and Programs Section 8 Integrate Resources and Modify Forecasts Section 9 Implementation Plan A 1-2

13 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System This section provides information on the physical characteristics of the existing water supply system, identifies water sources and system limitations, characterizes water costs and pricing, reviews current policies and planning initiatives, an summarizes current water conservation activities. 2.1 Physical Characteristics of the Existing Water Supply System Castle Pines North is located in the south metro Denver area, in northern Douglas County approximately 5 miles north of Castle Rock and west of Interstate 25. Water is provided to the community by the District. A water treatment plant treats groundwater pumped from the Denver Basin. Wastewater is treated by the Plum Creek Wastewater Authority Treatment Plant and is discharged into East Plum Creek. The service area is comprised of 3.4 square miles of mainly residential homes, commercial services, schools, parks, and open space. Approximately 9,000 people with over 3,000 houses and businesses currently reside within the community. Figure 2-1 shows the type of development within the District service area. There are a several undeveloped parcels zoned for parks and commercial use within the boundaries of Castle Pines North. Approximately 38 undeveloped acres are zoned for commercial. The Lagae North and La Gae South parcels along the Castle Pines Parkway west of King Soopers are proposed to be developed. The parcel CC-20, near the center of the District is zoned commercial, but plans are being reviewed to develop the parcel with a mixture of patio homes and commercial. Plans for the Castle View Park, 26 acres of park, have been approved for development. Castle Pines North is a relatively new community with the majority of homes constructed after Table 2-1 shows the estimated and projected number of homes from 1993 through 2010 and buildout. The residential sector is currently 95 percent build out with approximately 166 zoned residential lots remaining. There is an average of 2.88 people per household in Douglas County (U.S. Census Bureau, February 2006). The number of people living in the service area was determined by multiplying 2.88 by the number of houses built in given year. These data are also provided in Table 2-1. A 2-1

14 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Figure 2-1 Castle Pines North Landuse A 2-2

15 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Table 2-1 Population and Homes in Castle Pines North Percent Year Number of Homes Annual Increase Estimated Population % 1, % 1, % 1, % 1, % 2, ,017 20% 2, ,190 17% 3, ,623 36% 4, ,074 28% 5, ,372 14% 6, ,674 13% 7, ,935 10% 8, ,095 5% 8, ,127 1% 9, ,159 1% 9, ,191 1% 9, ,223 1% 9, ,259 1% 9,386 Build out 3,261 9,392 Residents, employees in the schools and commercial sector, as well as customers that use the commercial facilities contribute to water usage. Customers that contribute to water usage through the use of commercial facilities are defined as traffic for purposes of this Plan. The District conducted a survey finding that employment population in 2005 totaled 458 people. Assuming a daily traffic of 100 people, the total employment and traffic population was 558 people in Historical employment and traffic values were estimated by multiplying the estimated fraction of development in each year by the sum of the 2005 employment and traffic populations. See Table 2-2. Table 2-2 Estimated Population for Commercial, Schools, and Customer Traffic Year Level of Development Employee and Traffic Population 1998 Two schools Two schools One third of 2005 commercial development and two schools Two thirds of 2005 commercial development and two schools All of 2005 commercial development and two schools All of 2005 commercial development and three schools All of 2005 commercial development and three schools All of 2005 commercial development and three schools 558 Table 2-3 provides water demand and supply data for The majority of these data are from the District's new billing system implemented in May The customer types included in each of the billing categories are provided in Table 2-4. A 2-3

16 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Table 2-3 Water System Profile for 2005 SERVICE CHARACTERISTICS Number Estimated service population 8,914 Estimated service area (square miles) 3.4 Miles of mains 31.4 miles Number of treatment plants One Number of separate water systems Zero Interconnection with other systems Zero ANNUAL WATER SUPPLY Annual volume Number of intakes or source points Percent metered Groundwater 1 1,751 AF % Reuse water 95 AF 1 100% Total annual water supply 1, % Percent metered SERVICE CONNECTIONS 2 Connections Water Sales Residential 2,907 $1,047, % Large lot residential 46 $34, % Commercial indoor 23 $73, % Townhouse 63 $19, % Irrigation only 80 $275, % Commercial 14 $57, % Total connections 3,133 $1,506, % Annual volume (AFY) Percent of total Per connection WATER DEMAND Residential 1, % 100% Large lot residential % 100% Commercial indoor % 100% Townhouse % 100% Irrigation only % 100% Commercial % 100% Total system demand 2 1,621.2 AVERAGE & PEAK DEMAND Volume Total supply capacity Percent of total capacity Average-day demand 1.4 mgd 5.04 mgd 28% Maximum-day demand 4.3 mgd 5.04 mgd 85% Maximum-hour demand Not available Not available Not available PLANNING Prepared a plan P Date Integrated Water Resources Plan Summer 2006 No Filed with state P Capital, facility, or supply plan Drought or emergency plan No No No Water Conservation Plan This Document June 2006 No 1 2 This is total well production for whole service area including the Ridge Golf Course. Data from the billing system which does not include the Ridge Golf Course. The Ridge Golf Course is contracted to receive 240 AFY in reimbursement for the drilling of a well for the District. 3 District open space and parks (included in irrigation only billing category, see Table 2-4) were metered for the first time in 2005, yet were not billed will be the first year in which the District will bill for irrigation on District parks and open spaces. A 2-4

17 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Table 2-4 Grouping of Customers in Billing Rate System Billing Rate Category Customer Type Single family homes, indoor use for patio homes, and HOA club houses Residential Large lot residential Single family homes greater than 1-1/4 acres Indoor only use for commercial and 2 of 3 schools, the Ridge Golf Course maintenance building, two restrooms on the Ridge Golf Commercial indoor Course, and indoor only meters for the apartments Townhouse Indoor use for townhouses Home Owner Association (HOA) irrigation (includes outdoor for patio homes & townhouses), outdoor commercial, outdoor for 2 of 3 Irrigation only schools, District irrigation meters, and District office. Commercial meters that handle indoor and outdoor needs, Ridge Golf Course Club House, 1 of 3 schools, as well as all other Commercial commercial indoor/outdoor meters. 2.2 Sources of Water The District currently relies on ten Denver Basin Groundwater Wells for water supply. Figure 2-2 shows the location of each well. Table 2-5 provides information well construction and aquifer location, permitted pumping rate, and the pumping rates for Table 2-5 Groundwater Wells in Castle Pines North Completion Permitted Pumping Rates Well Aquifer Drilled Date Pumping Rate for 2005 A-1 Arapahoe July-Sept 1985 March AFY gpm A-2 Arapahoe June Aug 1985 October AFY gpm A-3 Arapahoe March-June AFY 419 gpm 1985 A-4C Arapahoe Feb Aug 1996 Fall AFY gpm A-5 Arapahoe June 2004 Planned for AFY Not in operation 2007 LDa-1 Lower Feb-Oct 1999 October AFY gpm Dawson LDa-2 Lower July Oct 2003 October AFY 36 gpm Dawson De-7 Denver Jan April 2001 Nov AFY gpm De-6 Denver Feb-June 2002 April AFY 201 gpm A-7 Arapahoe Jan-April 2001 Nov AFY gpm A-6 Arapahoe Feb-June 2002 April AFY gpm The District can also legally reuse its non-tributary groundwater. The District began to reuse a portion of their treated reclaimed water for irrigation of the Ridge Golf Course in In 2004, 78 AF was used for irrigation and in 2005, 95 AF was used. The District plans to annually use 240 AFY for irrigation of the golf course beginning in A 2-5

18 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Figure 2-2 Castle Pines North Non-Tributary Groundwater Wells A 2-6

19 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System 2.3 System Limitations The South Metro area is one of the key "gap" areas identified by the Statewide Water Supply Initiative (SWSI). Although the District can currently meet its water supply needs, it is projected that groundwater levels will continue to decline both directly underlying the District service area as well as regionally throughout the entire South Metro area. This is attributed to the growing demands and to the regional dependence on groundwater. If alternative renewable supplies are not found to slow the decline of groundwater levels, it is anticipated that the costs to maintain groundwater production rates (e.g., redrilling wells; increased pumping energy requirements) will eventually escalate to the point that this source is no longer economically viable. The District has participated in regional planning studies, including the South Metro Water Supply Study and is a participant in the proposed enlargement of Reuter Hess Reservoir. In addition, the District is developing an IWRP, which is to evaluate the District's demands, conservation measures, and the short-term and long-term sustainability of the District's existing groundwater supply. This is discussed in more detail in Section 2.5. Table 2-6 provides a brief summary on the conditions of the water supply system. Table 2-6 Water System Profile PLANNING QUESTIONS Yes No Comment Is the system in a designated X CPN is in an area identified by SWSI. critical water supply area? Does the system experience frequency shortages or supply emergencies? X The existing groundwater supply and conveyance system is of adequate capacity to meet average demands. Mandatory watering restrictions were permanently set in May 2003 to manage peak demands. An additional well is being brought online Does the system have substantial unaccounted-for and lost water? Is the system experiencing a high rate of population and/or demand growth? Is the system planning substantial improvements or additions? Are increases to wastewater system capacity for Castle Pines North anticipated within the planning horizon? X X X X in 2007 to supplement the supply. See Section 2.5. The District began to meter their irrigation on parks and open space in This was the only end user not previously metered. Accounting of the 2005 data did not indicate significant water loss. The District experienced substantial growth between 1993 and A 5% percent growth is expected from 2006 to 2011 within CPN's existing boundaries. The District is currently developing in Integrated Water Resources Plan evaluating renewable surface water supply alternatives. In the short-term, an additional well is being brought online and other system improvements or occurring in An expansion of the wastewater treatment plan was recently completed in Additional expansions may be necessary because of growth in other water Districts that the plant services. A 2-7

20 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System 2.4 Characterize Water Costs and Pricing Figure 2-3 provides the District's revenue history from 1998 to In 2005, water rates were increased for the first time since 1997 and will increase again in These rate increases are intended to generate revenue for operation and maintenance costs as well as fund studies for the acquisition of renewable surface water supplies. $3,000,000 $2,500,000 $2,000,000 $1,500,000 $1,000,000 $500,000 $ Revenue Water Service Sewer Service Storm Drainage * Historical revenue data was derived from annual budgets. Sewer and storm drain are added together for Figure 2-3 Historical Revenue Billing System Prior to 2004, the District used a fixed fee plus a four-tiered increasing block rate structure where after a specified amount of water use is exceeded, the rate per thousand gallons increases. A new system was implemented in This system also incorporates a four-tiered increasing block rate structure and includes a water budget for each customer based upon actual lot size. Water budgets have been calculated for each customer type (residential and non-residential) based on a reasonable amount of usage needed to meet both indoor and outdoor needs. The water rate (unit price per thousand gallons) a customer pays remains fixed until usage exceeds the budget. Water rates are the same for all customer types (water budgets differ per customer). As shown in Table 2-7, the increase in unit price depends on the percentage by which each customer exceeds their water budget. The District has approved a 12 percent rate hike. These will be implemented on April 1, A 2-8

21 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Table and 2006 Rate Structure for the New Water Rate System Level Percentage Exceedence 2005 Cost/1000 Gallons 2006 Cost/1000 Gallons 1 Within Budget Amount $2.50 $ % - 120% $3.25 $ % - 140% $4.00 $ Over % $7.00 $7.84 The water budget for each customer depends on customer type and lot size. Budgets for commercial customers that do not have any outdoor landscaping only account for indoor use, whereas budgets for residential homes assume an indoor usage of 9,000 gal/month and also account for landscape irrigation during the summer months (May - October). The total monthly budget is the sum of the indoor use and outdoor irrigation. In order to calculate the budget for outdoor irrigation, the District assumes 27 inches of water (17 gal/square foot/yr) is adequate to maintain green lawns during the irrigation season. This value is multiplied by a percentage of the lot size that is assumed to be irrigated to determine the quantity of water needed for irrigation. Table 2-8 lists the assumptions made to calculate water budgets for a variety of customers. Table 2-8 Water Budget Assumptions Type Indoor Outdoor Single family homes less than 9,000 gal/year 50% of lot is irrigated 1.25 acres Single family homes greater than 9,000 gal/year 25% of lot is irrigated 1.25 acres Outdoor Commercial n/a 85% of lot is irrigated HOA open space n/a 85% of lot is irrigated Indoor/outdoor commercial Meter reading 85% of lot is irrigated Indoor Commercial Meter reading n/a This District has not experienced any unusual revenue or billing issues. Every billing cycle there are several customers that do not pay their bill. The District issues three notices before the water is shut off. The first two notices are letters while the final notice is posted on the door of the resident the day before the water is shut off. 2.5 Current Policies and Planning Initiatives The District has implemented a water restriction policy and been involved in a variety of planning initiatives to address water supply and demand as well as water supply reliability. Water Restrictions Water restrictions have historically been voluntary within the District. Customers that inquired about restrictions were referred to Denver Water's recommendations. However, the District placed mandatory restrictions in May of 2003 following the extreme drought conditions of This was primarily intended to manage peak demands. These restrictions are still enforced and are planned to continue. A 2-9

22 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Customers may water every third day on designated water days. The days on which a customer may water are based on the last digit of their address. These days are posted on the website for easy access. Water times are allowed from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. in the evenings and from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. in the mornings. Water restrictions were enforced by a full-time District employee in 2004 that patrolled the neighborhood. Following the first infraction, which was a warning, a fine was issued. The fine increased as the number of infractions increased. See Table 2-9. Water restriction are still mandatory, however, the District did not patrol the service area in Table 2-9 Fine for Infraction of Water Restrictions Infraction Fine First Warning Second $75 Third $100 Fourth $150 Fifth $200 As disclosed in Section 9.0, rebates of $200 will be provided to customers who purchase an evapotranspiration (ET) controller. ET controllers regulate irrigation based on ET (the amount of water that is lost to the atmosphere through evaporation and plant transpiration). ET is estimated by using empirical calculations and monitoring atmospheric factors that influence ET, such as humidity and temperature. The timing and amount of irrigation for systems using ET controllers depends on atmospheric and weather conditions rather than the day of the week. Consequently, residents using ET controllers may be exempt from the water restrictions. Upon receiving the ET controller rebate, residents will also receive a notice that they may post to notify the District that they are exempt from the watering restrictions. Table 6-1 in Section 6 provides additional details on the ET controller rebate. Planning Initiatives The District is planning to develop a reliable and sustainable (renewable) surface water supply and has been involved with several studies focusing on this. The District has participated in regional planning studies, including the South Metro Water Supply Study and is participating in the enlargement of Reuter Hess Reservoir and the reallocation of surface water in Chatfield Reservoir. The South Metro Study addressed the declining groundwater levels throughout the South Metro area and evaluated the potential of conjunctive use. The study indicated that conjunctive use can curtail groundwater declines and supply a renewable water source to the area. As previously mentioned, the District is currently developing an IWRP. The IWRP will outline the methodologies needed to attain reliable and sustainable water supply. This supply will most likely consist of a combination of water supply and management options including surface water, conservation, conjunctive use, and water reuse. This IWRP will identify and prioritize the District's main objectives in obtaining a reliable supply. These objectives will be used to evaluate water supply A 2-10

23 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System options and provide the District guidance in selecting a group of options that are best suited for the District's needs. The development of the IWRP is divided into a four step process that includes: Task 1: Investigating the current and future water demands Task 2: Assessing the effects of existing and future water conservation efforts Task 3: Evaluating the long-term sustainability of the District's existing groundwater supply Task 4: Developing a long-term supply plan The District is also planning on joining other entities in the South Metro area to conduct a rain harvest study. This study will be evaluating water rights implications if the study area collects rainwater for reuse. The collection of rainwater will reduce the amount of runoff entering nearby streams, reducing the amount of water downstream for other users. This study will focus on quantifying the amount of water needed to compensate downstream users. 2.6 Current Water Conservation Activities In 2003, the District began to implement a variety of conservation measures to conserve water. These consist of adjusting water rates, watering restrictions, rebate incentives, and public education. Table 2-10 provides details on each conservation measure. Further details on water restrictions and the water rate structure are provided in Sections 2.5 and 2.4, respectively. Table 2-10 shows that the water savings from the majority of the conservation activities are difficult to quantify. This is attributed to a variety of factors. For instance, information on the unit savings for many of the retrofits is limited and the savings also depends on behavior. Savings through education is highly variable and depends on a variety of factors including the number of participants and regional climatic factors. Customers are much more willing to respond to education if there is an existing water shortage. Section 2.1 describes the per capita demand reductions since the onset of the programs and provides further explanation on why limited quantitative data is available on water savings. Table 2-10 Current Conservation Activities Approximate Annual Water Conservation Measures and Programs Water Savings Since Implementation Implemented Since Water Restrictions Unknown May 2003 Yes Water Rate Structure Increasing May 2004 Yes block rate structure with assigned water budget Unknown The program is relatively new and there is not an adequate period of record to quantify savings. Rebate Program See discussion below May 2003 Yes Public Education Program Can not quantify 2004 Yes Is Planned to Continue? A 2-11

24 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Table 2-10 Current Conservation Activities Approximate Annual Water Conservation Measures and Programs Water Savings Since Implementation Implemented Since Is Planned to Continue? Replacement of Meters with Radio Read meters Can not quantify 2003 Will complete replacement of all meters in 2006 Leak Repair on District's Water Distribution System Can not quantify When water system was put on line (1984) Volume Billing Can not quantify 1996 Yes Meter Source Water Can not quantify When water system was put on line (1984) Metering of District Irrigation Can not quantify 2005 Yes Turf Restrictions and Landscape design/layout for District Irrigation Rebate Program Yes Can not quantify 2005 Yes The District began a rebate program in May of 2003 to provide incentive for customers to install items that enhance water use efficiency. Details on each rebate are provided in Table Customers receive a rebate from the District for the purchase and use of any of the items. For the first 3 years of the program, 196 rebates were provided to customers totaling $21,426. Estimated water savings for the rebates where savings could be quantified from 2003 to 2005 are presented in Table Table 2-11 Retrofit Incentives Item Benefit/Savings Rebate Rain Sensors Overrides irrigation $100 system by detecting (Limit one per rainfall. household) Irrigation Clock Low Flow Toilets 1 Low Usage Washing Machines 2 Hot Water Recirculation System and Tankless Hot Water Heaters 20% Water Usage Reduction Sets time limits to help conserve water Uses 1.6 gallons per flush; Old toilets use three to five gallons per flush Uses 25 gallons per load; Horizontal machines use 40 gallons per load Delivers hot water to fixtures quickly 20% rebate given to customers whose annual water demand is 20% lower than what is allocated in their budgeted water rate $75 (Limit one per household) $100 (Limit three per household) $125 (Limit two per household. Contact Metro District for a list of qualifying washers.) $100 (Limit one per household) Number of Rebates Since Onset Total Rebate of Program Expenditures 28 $2, $2, $1, $10, $2,000 20% 12 $1,976 A 2-12

25 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System Table 2-12 Estimated Water Savings from Existing Rebates Average Savings Savings Savings Savings Retrofit Rebate Number Rebates (1000 gal/yr) Number Rebates (1000 gal/yr) Number Rebates (1000 gal/yr) Total Rebates (1000 gal/yr) Low Flow $ Toilets Low Usage $ Washers Irrigation $ Clock Rain Sensor $ Public Education Program In 2004, the District began to implement a coordinated effort to educate its customers on their water supply, water rates, and the importance of water conservation. A variety of media/venues are used to distribute information to customers. These include: Newsletters Five newsletters have been distributed to customers since May Typically, one third or more of each newsletter has focused on conservation. Topics such as the Rebate Program, explanation of the water rate structure and water bills, xeriscaping, and efficient outdoor water tips have been covered. Bill inserts Four bill inserts have been distributed to customers since These inserts have provided information on rate increases, the IWRP, and on stormwater. Website In 2003, Castle Pines North developed a website providing information on water, parks, finances, board members, and a variety of other information. Information on water focuses on water supply and infrastructure, water rates and budget, water quality, conservation, sewer, and storm drain. See distribution list In late 2004, the District began to notify the customers about upcoming events (e.g., public meetings), programs, and other District news through . The District may access 70 percent of its customers by . The District held a total of six public meetings in 2004 and 2005 to discuss groundwater supplies and the IWRP. The District believes that public meetings are an important venue of communication. Distribution System The District has metered their source water and majority of meter service connections since inception of the District. In 2005, the District began to meter its irrigation of open space and parks. This was the remaining "loop hole" needed to develop a water budget where the quantity of water produced from the wells could be compared to the metered quantity of the end user. This comparison provides an indication of major water losses or infiltration of water into the water conveyance system. A 2-13

26 Section 2 Profile of Existing Water System The District began to replace service connection meters with radio read meters in Approximately one-third of the meters were replaced annually. The entire District is now fully automated from a meter reading perspective. This will improve meter accuracy and accounting and also ensure that the meters are read at the same time each month, improving the consistency of the billing system. Prior to the installation of these meters, meter readings would occur over the course of several days. Customers could not make a direct comparison of monthly water usage given that the billing duration would sometimes vary by a few days. The District also provides leakage repair services. All leaks within the distribution system that are not on private property are repaired at the District's expense. In 2006, the District budgeted to leak survey approximately one-half of the District system (distribution system not on private property). District Irrigation The District began metering their irrigation on open space and parks in 2005 and they plan on billing themselves in In addition to metering, they routinely test all irrigation zones to ensure that irrigation heads are properly adjusted. During the irrigation season, signs are posted on District open space, providing a phone number that the public may call to report a broken sprinkler head. Key Success Factors and Challenges of Conservation A key success to the District's conservation effort is the implementation of the budget water rates structure. This rate structure has received a positive response from customers. Customers have a good understanding of how their water budget is calculated and generally feel comfortable having a budget to gauge their water usage. A particular challenge to this program is that customers must wait for their water bill to find out how much water they have used. They are not able to directly read their water usage off their meters. They must also contact the District to find out what their monthly billing water budget is. This information is not available on individual bills. A 2-14